Brazil Travel Guide: Things To Do in Brazil. Places To See in Brazil.

Places to See in Rio de Janeiro

Sugar loaf mountain. Portuguese Translators in Brazil.

Also referred to as the “Marvelous City,” Rio de Janeiro boasts of beautiful sceneries and is home to the world’s largest and most popular festival – the Carnival. If you are going to be in Rio de Janeiro before Lent, then be sure not to miss this exhilarating festival. It has a fascinating and long history that dates back to 1723. The Carnival lasts for a period of 4 days, a celebration attracting over two million people each day coming from every corner of the globe, who flock to enjoy the food and drinks, and get to watch the magnificent parades. Rio de Janeiro has been the capital of Brazil for close to 200 years. It is also considered a primary culture center in Brazil, abundant in theatres, museums, cinemas, concert rooms, libraries, and art galleries. Restaurants offering all types of fare ranging from international cuisine to authentic Brazilian dishes are offered by the city as well. Not too many cities in other countries have the festive atmosphere that Rio has, which can be seen in its beaches, the samba, the delicious food, the thrill of football, and its beautiful people. Walking down the city streets, visitors are able to get a glimpse of its history in the baroque artworks of the churches, the well-preserved residential facades displaying unique deco art, and the 50s architecture that is uniquely Brazil.

It was said the Brigitte Bardot discovered the peninsula of Buzios in the 1960s while on a holiday with her boyfriend. The discovery turned the once sleepy fishing village to a great holiday destination. Accommodations are plentiful, with the peninsula’s gamut of beautiful beaches, numbering 23, each catering to different activities. Some of the famous ones are Tartaruga, Ferradura, Geriba Jose Goncalves and Joao Fernando. The latter caters to the rich people from Argentina.

For a bit of Rio de Janeiro history, it would be fun to visit the island of Ilha Fiscal in Guanabara Bay. It was the venue for the Baile da Ilha Fiscal in 1889 before the Republic of Brazil was proclaimed. Today Ilha Fiscal has a cultural history museum managed by the Brazilian Navy.

The Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon has become known worldwide for the giant Christmas tree the city regularly puts up in December. The tree is placed on a floating platform and allowed to drift around the lagoon. The lagoon will be the site for the rowing events of the 2016 Summer Olympics and Summer Paralympics. It will also play host to the canoe sprint event during the 2016 Summer Olympics. Copacabana, Ipanema, Leblon and Gávea are near the lagoon.

Things to Do in Rio de Janeiro

Pay a visit to Corcovado and get a good view of the statue of Christ the Redeemer. The best way to do this is to take the centenary train of Corcovado, which is actually the oldest ride for tourists offered by the country. As soon as you reach the top, you will be able to see Christ’s statue with open arms, a symbol of Rio and a representation of the city’s religiosity.

Have a wonderful time in the beaches of Ipanema, go people watching, or take a stroll on its trendy streets to find the latest in fashion, great restaurants, and trendy cafes. The Praca General Osorio features its hippie market every Sunday and visitors are able to find various souvenirs, handicrafts, and garments galore. Another one of the famous beaches to see is Copacabana, with a charming backdrop of mountains and the city itself. Several restaurants line the beach for visitors to relax while enjoying a “caipirinha,” Brazil’s national cocktail, or a batida, a popular Brazilian liqueur. For those with a lover for wind and body surfing, then you will have a great time at Barra de Tijuca Beach, the longest beach in Brazil. You will be sure to find a nice spot in its 18-kilometer stretch.

Another famous landmark of Rio that is a must-see for tourists is the Pão de Ac?ucar or Sugar Loaf Mountain. This is definitely the best location to get a good view of Rio along with its seas and mountain ranges. Vendors are all over the place, selling juice and coconuts. Refreshment stands and food stalls are right there to provide visitors with delicious treats as well.

Places to See in São Paulo

São Paulo or “Sampa” as Paulistanos call it is Brazil’s only city that can boast of being truly cosmopolitan, as it has a rich immigration history comparable to that of New York. The country has been colonized by the Portuguese, h3iards, Africans, Italians, Germans, Japanese, Syrians, and the list goes on. More recently, Korean and Bolivian immigrants have added to the population of 11 million in the city. Because of that, the city is abundant with cultural attractions. It has an incredibly vibrant night life, and a profusion of restaurants serving international cuisine. São Paulo is remarkably varied in both its architecture and environment. You can easily see this is in what remains of the Mata Atlantica, Brazil’s Atlantic forest, and the city’s quaint churches, its modern structures and innovative parks. If you are walking around the Avenida Paulista, which is São Paulo’s most popular street, you will be reminded of the streets of Manhattan. Jardim Paulista on the other hand is an escape from the dirt and pollution of the busy city life, with its hilly and prosperous roads.

While in São Paulo, get to see the Auditório Ibirapuera that was built in 2005, but was actually designed way back in 1954. This music hall features ultra-modern amenities and is among the best concert venues in the city. The Parque Ibirapuera is a beautiful park featuring a lake right in the middle of the area, pathways for biking or for strolling around, and even a museum to spend some quality time in. Speaking of museums, the city has several of their own that visitors are always welcome to see. The Ipiranga Imperial Museum for instance, is perfect for history aficionados with its art pieces such as paintings, photographs, videos, and period attires that give tourists a good idea about the city’s exciting history. The São Paulo Museum of Art along Paulista Avenue is home to both local as well as international art collections that include European and African art pieces, apart from Brazil’s own. Sao Paulo also has an image and sound museum, the Museu da Imagem e do Som, a product of the collective minds of some of Brazil’s intellectuals to study and document the new media works of individuals and groups in the audio-visual arts.

For a little peace and quiet, the churches of São Paolo are the perfect settings for quiet meditation and prayer. Some churches to see are the Sampa Community Church, the Mosteiro de São Bento, and the Cathedral of São Paulo. The São Paulo Cathedral is the largest in the city. It started construction in 1913 and took forty years before it was completed. Rare marble were used in building the church.

Sao Paulo also has a very unique museum that you should not miss, the Museu da Língua Portuguesa, an interactive museum located at the train station of Estação da Luz. It was put up to provide a living representation of the language for both speakers and non-speakers of Portuguese. It contains several exhibits, audio-visual presentations and art works by local artists, all related to the development of the Portuguese language. An entertaining section of the museum is the Word Alley where a visitor can move images of words, radicals, prefixes and suffixes so they can form words. Once a word is formed an animation is shown on the origin and meaning of the word the visitor formed.

Things to Do in São Paulo

For first-timers in São Paulo, taking a walking trip around some of its neighborhoods like the Bela Vista or Little Italy, and the Liberdade or Japan town is a good way to get started. Liberdade has the largest Japanese community outside Japan and the community has been growing since it began in the 1950s. A 9-meter tall red torii stands at the entrance to Liberdade. Japanese food, goods and grocery items are available in the various shops in the area. Young people interested in manga often have cosplay during weekends. Beach bums will have great fun in some of the well-known beaches of São Paulo. The Praia Grande is a popular beach area that tourists flock to. The beach has all types of activities to offer its guests, including jet skiing or having a go on the banana boats.

Families will have a great time at the São Paulo Zoo and Gardens with its incredible assortment of the local animals of Brazil. It also houses some very fine-looking gardens that are perfect for a nice, leisurely stroll in.

At night, there can be nothing more fun to do than have a taste of São Paulo’s entertainment spots found just about anywhere in the city. The Vila Olímpia district has always been very popular with people who love to go night-clubbing, having the most night spots in São Paulo. For those who simply want to have a drink or two in the more subdued bars or lounges in the city, the Vila Madalena district is the place to be.

The festivals and events in São Paulo are attractions that you may want to include in your itinerary. Should you be in the area on the 25th of January, you can catch the city’s anniversary where the local residents celebrate the discovery of São Paulo back in the 1500s. Another festival is held in the month of May, the festival of São Vito. This event gives visitors the opportunity of get a glimpse of the city’s Italian legacy as they get to sample Italian cuisine and listen to the traditional music of Italy.

The city is also filled with shopping areas where bargains are all the rage. If you are interested in handicrafts and other hand-made products, visit the Liberdade district and check out some of their Asian goods from Japan, Korea, and China. The Ibirapuera Shopping Mall has various department stores for shoppers to pick out from. The Rua Oscar Freire is the shopping area to go to for designer brands and the latest in fashion.

Something that shouldn’t be missed is a good game of football, being Brazil’s favorite sport. São Paulo also boasts of being the hometown of Pele, world-renowned football player. The Museo du Futebol houses this player’s memorabilia, another must-see in the city.

Places to See in Salvador

Salvador is situated on the Bay of All Saints in Brazil’s central coast. Visitors can have a glimpse of its history strolling down cobblestone streets and visiting the Igreja São Francisco, considered to be among the most spectacular churches of the world, richly adorned with gold and silver and precious stones. Its ceiling boasts of artwork that is so beautiful, comparable even to the Sistine Chapel. Sightseeing in Salvador is an experience visitors would not want to miss. The city’s natural beauty as well as its numerous heritage locations can be viewed within a space of 331 kilometers. Tours of the city are available with numerous sightseeing companies offering trips of the local area and Pelourinho.

Walking down the streets of Pelourinho, your eyes can feast on impressive colonial churches and very interesting museums. The Museo Afro-Brasileiro displays the culture that began following the period when African slaves arrived in Brazil. Santo Antonio also comprises colonial buildings that have been restored, some of which are only facades. You may also get to chance upon some of the locals performing capoiera in the street. Tour guides provide information on history and folklore while introducing visitors to sights that are not too common. You could also opt to take a tour on your own on foot as a lot of places in the city are not accessible by car. Rental cars are available as well.

A drive to the sleepy town of Cachoiera is a good way to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the countryside. Another place to see is Itaunas that will give you a taste of the traditional Brazilian lifestyle, where sandy roadways are created for barefoot walking. The Farol da Barra or Barra Lighthouse is found right in the neighborhood of Barra, a lighthouse that proudly stands on the Forte de Santo Antonio de Barra. The fort itself was a Portuguese fortress erected as a protection of Salvador from the English, h3ish, and Dutch attacks. Inside the lighthouse is a museum displaying naval artifacts as well as other items obtained from the shipwrecks outside Salvador Bay. The Farol da Barra is the best place to catch the magnificent sunset by the bay.

Things to Do in Salvador

Most probably one of the first things anyone would want to do while in Salvador is participate in the world’s biggest street carnival celebrated during New Year’s Day. If you enjoy parties, Salvador’s carnival is the best event to join. For a true carnival experience, you will simply need to join the parade, while dancing Samba with the rest of the crowd. Enjoy the drinks and the food and let your hair down!

For something different, visit the Salvador National Zoo to take a look at the giant anacondas in the reptile section. These snakes are the largest in the world.

If you are a sports fan, the sports in Brazil is something to look into. Salvador offers a wide range of great sports activities. Golfers can try out the Itapua Golf Course with its nine-hole green. The golf course is an affiliate of the Sofitel Hotel. You may also opt to watch a good game of soccer at Estadio Fonte Nova. When it comes to sports in Salvador, soccer is most certainly on top of the list. Get your dancing feet to work at the dance clubs in the Aeroclube Plaza mall. Experience Capoeira, the Brazilian martial art and dance that all started in Bahia. Classes for Capoeira are offered in Salvador for visitors interested in learning this popular Brazilian martial art form.

A visit to Salvador will never be complete without discovering its beautiful beaches. The Costa Azul is world renowned for its beaches in the center of Piata and Pituba. Each of them is an ideal spot for getting a nice tan and swimming. Restaurants line up the adjacent highway, along with bars to enjoy a drink or two. You may also want to visit the various parks hugging the coastline, like the Parque Costa Azul, Parque Aeroclube, and the Parque Jardim dos Namorados.

Have some quiet time to meditate in the beautiful church, Igreja do Bonfim. Evenings here are extra special when the church is completely lit up, and you also get a pretty view of the bay. Visit the church museum and its antechamber, where photos as well as ribbons are on display, representing special requests from devotees. Sample the best Brazilian cuisine from the Bahia restaurants that can be found all over the city. Restaurants in Barra offer authentic Salvador dishes that are definitely mouth-watering. You can also have a taste of local cuisine in a Baiana, stalls that offer various Salvador dishes such as the Abara, a local delicacy. You can also sample the best desserts and delectable Salvador fruit juices and ice cream.

When it comes to shopping, Salvador is paradise to bargain hunters. Just about any item can be found in the mall, from clothing to crafts, ceramics and music. For local art, galleries can be found in Pelourinho, offering art pieces at affordable prices.

Local music is another experience you will not want to miss out in Salvador. Visit some of the best music spots in the city like the Bar do Reggae or the Aeroclube Plaza for their featured concerts. The Teatro Castro Alves is another place to go to if you want to check out some of the best performers in Brazil. The Bahia Online Music store will surely appeal to you if you are into the latest Bahian live music. Take up lessons in Portuguese at Terra Brasilis that offer private classes or group lessons on all levels. Course programs are also offered for those who are interested in learning about the rich culture and history of Brazil.

Places to See in Foz du Iguaçu

Foz do Iguaçu is a visitor’s entryway to Argentina and Paraguay, and is also a key city of Paraná in Brazil. It is home to the world-renowned Iguaçu Falls. The city’s name is derived from its location, sitting right by the Iguaçu River and releasing into the Paraná River. The Iguaçu Falls or the Cataratas du Iguaçu is a very famous attraction of the country and possess a flow that is three times more than Niagara Falls. The Falls are definitely something to see, with cascades of water running over the cliffs as mists rise around the jungle. Boat rides are available for tourists who would like to take time enjoying the great scenery. Although most of the falls can be found in Argentina, you can get a nicer overview of the sight from the side of Brazil. Helicopter tours are available as well, offering a 10-minute trip that gives visitors an aerial overview of the National Park of Iguaçu. Another sight to see from the air is the Itaipu Hydroelectric Plant, the world’s biggest electricity-powered generator.

Things to Do in Foz du Iguaçu

Take the Foz du Iguaçu tour, which is highly informative while taking you around the very charming streets of the city as well as its main attractions. The tour has been carefully planned with an itinerary promising newcomers a visit to some of the most must-see places in Foz du Iguaçu. Along with a very qualified guide who is there to educate visitors on the attractions that the city has to offer, while providing detailed descriptions of the history and culture of Foz du Iguaçu, this tour is definitely something worth joining while in the city.

Visit the Parque das Aves or the Bird Park located very near the falls. Here, you can get a close-up view of an assortment of exotic birds numbering around 900 of 180 species, and even get a chance to take priceless photos with them. The Bird Park also features a butterfly section and a reptile section. You may also want to visit the Three Borders Landmark or the Tríplice Fronteira in Portuguese, the meeting point of Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay, where you can get a great view of the three countries together in one go.

The Iguaçu Falls Urban Adventures is one of the best sightseeing tours accompanied by knowledgeable tour guides as you explore the many natural resources of Foz du Iguaçu, which includes the Iguaçu National Park. The vibrant energy of the waterfalls to the spectacular surroundings of the park’s flora and fauna is an experience you will not easily forget. A tour of the Salto do Macuco on an open vehicle with tri-lingual guides can take you to the start of a trail h3ning 600 meters leading to Salto do Macuco, featuring sparkling clear waters flowing over rocks of 20 meters in height. Take a boat ride for a great adventure.

Go on an excursion to Poco Preto or the Black Well, and take in the sights of the National Park’s verdant vegetation. Guides are made available for visitors who wish to go bird watching as well as take photographs of the birds.

When it comes to dining, the city definitely has no shortage of food establishments catering to the most discerning taste buds. There are several restaurants in serving delicious steaks. These steak houses or churrascarias even offer folklore shows for its entertainment suitable for every member of the family, even with special Samba shows featuring mulattas dancers wearing with skimpy bikinis. For those with a sweet tooth, the Oficina do Sorvete serves up not only main dishes but yummy desserts as well, specifically ice cream in a wide assortment of flavors. Indulge!

To find an area of tranquility where the whole family can take time off from the energy of the city, take off to the Bosque Guarani Zoo, where the sound of chirping birds along with the charming sight of local flora can soothe the tired wanderer. Approximately 400 types of birds can be found within its premises, with animals coming from donations, as well as those that have been rescued by the forestry police from poachers. The zoo ranks third among the largest in Paraná and is complete with bathrooms, playground for the children, an amphitheater, and snack bar for everyone to enjoy.

And because Foz do Iguaçu is such a popular tourist destination, shopping is certainly something to do in the city. The Avenida das Cataratas is a place to go to for the best gift shops you can find, specifically in the Três Fronteiras Artesanatos, where carvings and precious stones can be found. Foz du Iguaçu’s central shopping district is the Avenida Brasil, home to a number of fashionable boutiques, electrical equipment, and music stores. Street vendors abound with their jewelry and other similar objects. Haggling is very welcome.

Places to See in Brasilia

Brasilia is the nation’s capital and is situated very near the center of Brazil. The Brazilian government’s three branches can be found here together with some of the largest companies in the country. The districts have been set in such a manner that resembles the shape of a butterfly from an aerial view. Because of its strategic location as well as its status, Brasilia attracts many visitors through its offerings of international art along with the popular cuisine of the city, although the natural beauty that surrounds the area greatly appeals to nature lovers. The day trips that take visitors to sites such as Chapada dos Veadeiros, a huge national park abundant with amazing wildlife and beautiful cascading waterfalls; or the Caldas Novas hot springs, are a welcome treat for those who want to escape for a while from city life.

A very famous attraction in Brasilia is the TV tower that stands at 224 meters and gives you the best view of the city from its observation deck. From there, you can take in the sights of the entire city and its architectural splendor. Additionally, a market at the base of the tower is open on weekends for great souvenirs. The Congresso Nacional do Brasil is an architectural landmark, something you may want to check out. From afar, it appears to be a tower in the middle of two huge bowls. This building is where you will find the Senate along with the Chamber of Deputies.

As you gaze upon the Brasilian landscape, you may find it quite hard to believe how young the city is. As a matter of fact, the city in its entirety took four years to construct back in the 50s. There is definitely no time to get bored in Brasilia, what with the beautiful sights to see, especially for visitors who are into modernist types of architecture.

Things to Do in Brasilia

Brasilia is anything but monotonous because there are just so many activities visitors can indulge in here. Visit the Parque Nacional de Brasilia and discover the healing powers of two of its natural mineral springs. The park also has a walking trail for visitors to have a nice, relaxing stroll while enjoying many of its natural sceneries. A trip to the Juscelino Kubitschek Memorial will give you a glimpse of the man behind Brasilia and considered to be its founding father. At the monument, learn more about Kubitschek’s vision, as well as the city’s history on exhibit here. A beautiful bridge crossing Lake Paranoá is also named after the former president of Brazil.

For peaceful time, enter the Catedral Metropolitana Nossa Senhora Aparecida, a beautiful cathedral designed by Oscar Niemeyer. Outside the church square the bronze statues of the four Evangelists, each standing three meters high. They lead to the entrance of the Cathedral. Although inconspicuous from outside, you will be amazed by the interior of the building. The altar and the walls of the cathedral are made from the purest white marble. Even more amazing is the overhead area of stained glass, which is certainly an unforgettable sight. Suspended from the ceiling are three angel sculptures. The biggest one measures 4.25 meters high and weighs about 300 kilos. The medium angel is 3.40 meters tall and its weight is around 200 kilos. The smallest angel weighs 100 kilos and is 2.22 meters tall. Its altar was donated by Pope Paul VI and its four big bells were a donation from Spain. Aside from religious paintings on its walls, it also has a reproduction of the Shroud of Turin.

If you would wish to see more of the works of Niemeyer, you may want to go to Palácio do Itamaraty, which is a fine example of the type of architecture dominant in Brasilia. This particular government building functions as the reception palace for the country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Visitors are always welcome there, with guided tours that are made available for interested viewers every day.

Should you be interested in learning more about the native people of Brazil, the museum Memorial do Pavos Indigenous is home to unique artifacts and other exhibits that are dedicated to the preservation of the culture of people who resided in Brazil over the centuries. Enjoy a cultural show at the Teatro Nacional, a theater that features artistic events and cultural presentations from Brazil.

Brasilia is well known for its international cuisine and local dishes. Restaurants offer authentic middle-eastern food and exotic entrees, like the baba ganoush and kibe, and South American meals and delicious paella, which will surely please the palate. You will find eating establishments that feature the classic h3ish dish, cooked the traditional way or simply with seafood and delectable Brazilian recipes that you may want to try out.

Places to See in Manaus

Manaus is found on the Rio Negro banks, so called because of the dark water. Manaus is considered to be a significant ecological tourist center, with the Ponta Negra beach as one of its most popular attractions. The river is shallow and its riverbed sands are clearly visible just below the river surface. One of the amazing things to see in Manaus is its wide assortment of flora and fauna, which includes Brazil’s rarest primates. The town is centrally situated and is the usual departure site for visitors on their way to the Amazon. There are so many amazing sights to enjoy in Manaus, along with the Amazon region that surrounds it. By joining tours, visitors can truly take in all of the sights and start an exploration of Brazil’s jungle region. The riches of the forest are evident at first glance in the city’s architecture. The city has been well developed with its rubber barons acquiring a replica from Europe of the Grand Opera of Paris, the Teatro Amazonas. Visitors will also admire other similar monuments such as Mercado Municipal, which is a reproduction of Les Halles found in Paris, as well as the Palacio Rio Negro, and arts center that is located in the midst of interesting Portuguese facades. At present, Manaus has become a foreign trade region. Manaus is a warm and friendly city despite the heat, an important port, as well as an ideal starting point used for tourists going on river tours.

Things to Do in Manaus

Go for an interesting tour of some of the museums of Manaus. The Amazon Natural Science Museum is located at the Japanese Colony and features several species of fish. The museum opened to the public on June 22, 1988, commemorating the Japanese settlement’s eightieth anniversary, primarily to promote nature education from the children in Brazil and to provide a guide for first-timers in Manaus. This is where you will find the Pirarucu or Amazonian Cody fish. It is a living fossil and is one of the world’s largest freshwater fish. It can grow up to over six feet long and can weigh as much as one hundred kilograms. Another name for the pirarucu is arapaima. While natives are allowed to catch the fish for food, commercial fishing is now banned. Another museum you may want to visit is the city’s Anthropology Museum to get to see local materials owned by the Salesian Church, collected in the 60s up to the early 80s from the jungle while giving medical assistance to Indians. Students frequent the museum to acquire information about Indian tribes.

If you love animals, you will surely enjoy the Manaus public zoo. The zoo preserves numerous species of local fauna, including anacondas, monkeys, jaguars, and other kinds of animals that are typically found in the Amazon. While in the jungle, enjoy your adventure even more by staying at the jungle lodges located there. These lodges were designed in rustic style so that visitors can appreciate the beauty of the jungle and all of its flora and fauna. There are about 14 jungle lodges on the Amazon, each one having different features, but sharing a common aim of having visitors completely enjoying their stay. They offer guests complete packages of meals, excursions, and jungle tours, for a really fun adventure.

Visit various areas of the Amazon in style and comfort by taking a river cruise. While on board a boat, you can experience more of the Amazon as the cruise takes you to remote communities where you can be able to get a glimpse of how people go about their daily lives. Go swimming with dolphins or get the chance to feed them on the public beach of Nova Airão, a tiny town about 165 kilometers from Manaus. Get to see 12 different species of animals that share the habitat with the rest of the population.

Enjoy the view of the Presidente Figuereido Falls, an amazing site at the Amazon featuring 300 waterfalls that are spread out in the jungle. Have a wonderful time at the Ponta Negra Beach, a famous tourist attraction abounding with restaurants and bars, along with handicraft stores for great buys. The Public market of Manaus is open daily, very early in the morning and offers various products such as vegetables fish, fruits, and handicrafts done locally.

For a touch of culture, the Opera House in Manaus is among the list of beautiful opera houses worldwide. You can take a guided tour and get a taste of the diverse styles combined together that make this Opera House quite impressive. It is right inside the forest of the Amazon. The Teatro Amazon or the Opera House was constructed using materials that came from some of the best places in the world. Its columns, stairs and its sculptures used Carrara marble from Italy. Its furniture pieces in the Louis XV style were imported from Paris while its roof tiles came from Alsace, France. The walls are made from steel that came from England. Thirty-two out of its 198 chandeliers are made from world-famous Murano glass from Italy while its curtain painted with the “Meeting of the Waters” was done in Paris. The dome of the Opera House is covered with 36,000 decorated ceramic tiles in blue, yellow and green, the colors of the flag of Brazil. Right across it is the Largo São Sebastião Cultural Center where you can get a better glimpse of the local history of Manaus. The center is set amidst historical homes as well as the St Sebastian Catholic Church. You can take memorable photographs of the attractive buildings to take home with you as souvenirs of your stay in Manaus.

Places to See in São Luis

São Luis was established in 1612 and its name was taken from King Louis XIII of France. This is because it was founded by France, ruling over certain parts of Brazil before the Portuguese defeated them. The Dutch occupied the state capital as well. Although there is not too much evidence remaining from the time of the French and the Dutch, there is still so much to see in São Luis that speaks a lot about its history.

The city’s downtown area is composed of more than 3,500 structures that are mostly covered by tiles following Portuguese architecture design, and in 1997, was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Traditional Brazilian folklore and Maranhão culture thrive in São Luis, and among the most important is the bumba-meu-boi, which is a type of celebratory pantomime that can be witnessed during the city’s June festivals. Another thing that São Luis is best known for is bringing back the traditions of the Carnival, which have been slowly disappearing under the strong influence of the Carnival of South-eastern Brazil. The dances and the distinct rhythms like the tambor de crioula (black woman’s drum) that go back to the slavery period in Brazil can be rediscovered in the Carnival of São Luis.

Marafolia, which is the off-season Carnival or the micareta of São Luis, is a big tourist attraction in the country. São Luis is considered to be the Reggae Capital of Brazil, as the city and the Caribbean have turned this genre of music to a passion of their own, along with its unique characteristics. These include dancing cheek to cheek, as well as reggae’s one-of-a-kind lingo. As a matter of fact, the city has sound towers all over the place that play reggae music day and night. There are also a number of reggae bars where tourists can get to enjoy reggae. Calhau also boasts of some of the greatest beaches in São Luis, especially popular for the sand dunes. For surfing, São Marcos is the perfect place to be.

Things to Do in São Luis

Apart from enjoying the beautiful beaches of São Luis, there are still a load of other things to do in São Luis, like visiting the city’s many museums. The Casa do Maranhão is a huge warehouse that has been converted to house the complete exhibit of the various local flavors of the Bumba Meu Boi, a festival of the peasant folk that happens in the streets of the city in June of each year. This museum has two floors that give visitors a picture of the costumes and the rhythms of the festivities. It features dioramas describing the different stages of the bumba meu boi or bull’s life, along with mannequins donned in traditional costumes and holding sotaques, which are instruments used for the bumba meu boi beats. Spend some time at the Memorial do Centro Historico, a 19th century mansion that has an huge display of before-and-after photographs of exceptional restoration works together with Maranhão’s traditional boats.

You may also want to visit the Palacio dos Leões or the governor’s palace, constructed in the 18th century, where the French fort was originally located. Taking a tour, you will be able to feast your eyes on some of the most priceless art pieces and antique furnishings from the latter years of the French era. From there, drop by the Palacio de la Ravardière, which is the City Hall or Prefeitura, built in 1689. Daniel de la Touche, the French founder of São Luis, is honored with a bust that stands proudly before the structure. Take in the sights within the Igreja da Sé, a cathedral constructed in the 17th century with its magnificent ceiling frescos adorned with babaçu designs, and a beautiful baroque-styled altar.

São Luis also has its share of great places to shop. Right across the Museu de Artes Visuais is Casa das Tulhas, a 19th century market place that offers visitors a huge and fascinating assortment of the typical crafts of Maranhão, as well as food products such as dried prawns, live ducks, and cashews. Try out the tiquira, a unique type of liquor made from cassava. For more handicrafts, go over to Ceprama, which is within a restored factory, functioning as both a display hall for various exhibits and shopping area for local crafts. For jewellery and other unique items, check out the Embaixada Babaçu Livre that is operated by the association of rural workers. Here, you will find beautiful pieces of jewellery, as well as soap and other items made with babaçu, which is a type of palm native to Maranhão. It is also used for food items, timber, oil, cattle feed, fertilizer, and charcoal by people from the rural areas.

Do not leave São Luis without having a taste of its famous local dish, the arroz-de-cuxá, which is rice accompanied by cuxá, a kind of dish prepared from vinagreira, a vegetable with a slightly bitter flavor, shrimp, and an assortment of seasonings. Then of course, there is the Guaraná Jesus, a local drink that contains a bit of guaraná extract, together with flavorings of cinnamon and clover. Guaraná is a common plant in Brazil prized for its fruits which contain double the amount of caffeine than coffee beans. These along with so many other exciting dishes and drinks to tickle your palate are available in some of São Luis’ more popular restaurants that serve Brazilian staples, including rice, seafood and pasta. Some restaurants offer live music at night, too.

Places to See in Campinas

One of the most fun cities to visit while in Brazil is Campinas. This is where you can get to meet different types of people, go partying at night, and get to see monuments and museums that are rich in history. The city can be found in São Paulo, its third biggest city, which means that there are absolutely so many things to see in Campinas and a load of things to do as well.

To learn more about the history as well as the culture of both Brazil and Campinas, the Museum of the Old Railway Station is the place to go to. It is Brazil’s biggest cultural center and you can surely learn a lot about the country there. The sights of the impressive architecture of Campinas is something to behold in structures like Teatro Castro Mendes, a place to catch an exciting performance or concert as well; and Campinas Metropolitan Cathedral, a stunning church that dates back to the 19th century. The Cathedral is especially remarkable because the entire interior had been constructed using sculptures made from jacaranda wood.

More than this however, Campinas focuses mostly on nature. There are just so many natural parks and beautiful sights to see, such as the Lagoa do Taquaral Park, Bosque dos Jequitibas, Parque Ecológico, Lago do Café, and the Bosque dos Alemães, to name a few. At the Municipal Park of Joaquim Egídio, you could visit its star observatory found within its premises. The other sights you will definitely not want to miss while you are in Campinas are the Arena Theatre, Castle Tower, Sousas, Hopi Hari, Unicamp, Brinco de Ouro de Princesa Stadium, and Largo do Pará.

Things to Do in Campinas

There is no better way to get to know a city better than going on foot. Start exploring Campinas and its many attractions. Take a nice stroll along its parks or spend some quiet moments at the city’s Cathedral downtown. Walk your way to Bosque dos Jequitibas to escape from the city heat. If you love flowers and want your eyes to rest on some of the most beautiful tulips, you may want to go to Holambra – São Paulo, a Dutch settlement that produces these beautiful ornamental flowers, as well as other floral beauties that are flown worldwide. Yes, even to Amsterdam! There, they are called Amsterdam tulips, but are really home grown from right here. Even the atmosphere of the place is Dutch, including the windmills, children with the rosiest cheeks, cows with white and black hides, and a myriad of flowers.

Because Brazil is best known for the most unique and sensual fashion anywhere in the world, you will surely find fantastic outfits at some of the city’s foremost shopping outlets. Although Brazil does import clothes, a lot of them are made in the country, making them quite cheap and one-of-a kind. You can be sure you won’t find a lot of these outfits anywhere else in the world. If you are into shopping, check out the Shopping Parque Dom Pedro, which is the largest shopping center anywhere in Latin America. You can also find a lot of great shopping items at Shopping Jaraguá, Shopping Galleria, Shopping Iguatemi, and of course, Campinas Shopping. Obviously, shopping is a big thing in Brazil.

When it comes to food in Campinas, you will be happy to know that they have a good number of restaurants serving up great dishes you will surely find satisfying. The nightlife at Campinas is another great reason to visit the city. Campinas has everything for everyone so make sure that you get to see the place when you are in Brazil.

Places to See in Recife

Recife is located on the very famous Golden Coast of Brazil and is a popular tourist attraction especially for those who love beaches and shopping. It is also a lot less crowded than Rio. The Shopping Center Recife that opened its doors a few decades back is a huge mall that offers a great shopping experience for visitors and locals alike and evidence of the city’s commitment to commercial development. Nonetheless, shopping is not the only activity Recife has to offer. It is also home to the most remarkable cathedrals as well as highly esteemed art galleries, making the city a core of culture of Brazil’s northern side. Just like most of the country’s famous cities, lovely beaches abound too. In spite of it being the country’s fourth biggest city, Recife maintains both its cultural and traditional appeal. It is also a very active seaport. Aside from its high rise buildings and busy avenues, the city is well-known for creative and whimsical traditions, its music, as well as its dance. Recife is surrounded by several inlets, bridges and canals that have made it earn its title of Venice of Brazil. Getting there is no problem at all, as the city can be accessed through land, air and sea.

Things to Do in Recife

One of the most popular things to do in Recife, much like most parts of Brazil is to go and visit its beaches. The Porto de Galindas is considered to be one of the best beach in the country. Not only does it offer fun at the beach, but also have a number of nightclubs and other eating establishments. After taking in the sun and the sea, you could go on foot and take a tour of Recife’s old city. Visit the Praça da República, and follow it up by taking in the impressive sight of 19th century Teatro Isabel.

While you are at it, pay a short visit to the Catedral de Sao Pedro dos Clerigos for a bit of quiet, meditative time. A fine example of Baroque architecture can be seen when you visit the San Antonio Church at Praca de Independencia. The church houses the images of Saint Sebastian and Saint Anthony but the focal point of interest is its huge crystal chandelier. Another church that is worth visiting is the Basilica el Convento Nossa or the Nossa Senhora Da Conceicao Dos Militares. It is a very well preserved building done in the Baroque-Rococo style. The outside of the basilica is quite simple, but you will be very impressed with its interior. Its painted ceiling depicts scenes from the Guararapes Battle when the people repelled the Dutch invasion. It also has several paintings of the Virgin Mary, including a pregnant Blessed Virgin.

The Casa de Cultura is another tourist sight you would not want to miss. This was once a prison but today has been transformed into souvenir shops where you can find the best local crafts. It is also a place to catch performances of musicians and dancers alike. Another must-see is the Olinda, which is why most visitors flock to Recife. Olinda, a heritage city of UNESCO and a living museum that features a rich display of 16th century Brazilian culture. It also holds the Folclore do Nordestino festival that highlights the local music and dance of the northeast region.

You can catch the festival during the last days of August. Get yourself a costume and participate in the Carnaval. You can catch rehearsals of the blocos, or the Carnaval group two months prior to the exciting festival and watch them practice the frevo, the primary dance of the Carnaval group. Discover anthropological and other popular works of art at the Museu do Homen do Nordoeste, the best museum in Recife.

You definitely would love your shopping experience at the second biggest shopping center in all of Brazil, the Shopping Center Recife. The Mercado de San Jose is another area to shop for the best on local arts and handicrafts. They even have a section dedicated especially for lace. If you especially like ceramics, you may want to check out the Olaria de Brennand, a ceramics plant that has on display thousands of ceramic pieces for you to enjoy. Lastly, but definitely not the least, go and watch a great game of futebol in Recife, where it is still the biggest hit around.

“Important Notice – You may use or download information available on our travel guide pages for your own personal, non-commercial use, provided that you give proper attribution, with a link back to our website. Similar to the sources used for the travel guides, World Interpreting provides links to information references even for contents we believe constitutes a ‘fair use’ of any such copyrighted material. If you wish to use copyrighted material from this site for purposes of your own that go beyond ‘fair use’, you must obtain permission from the copyright owner. More information here.”